Pittsburgh Steelers Fanatic

Blame enough to go around

2012-01-10T13:09:00.000-08:00

The "Chalk Talk" feature on Steelers.com is one of our favorites, and this week's edition examines the Broncos success at throwing the ball deep against Pittsburgh.

Did Ike Taylor have a bad game? Sure, but there's more to it than just one player's poor performance.

Post mortems: Struggling on the road

2012-01-09T07:28:00.000-08:00

Consider this the first in several postseason wrap-ups.

For all the glowing numbers produced by the 2011 Pittsburgh Steelers ~ e.g. 12-4 record, #1 defense, top 10 passing offense ~ there is one number that did not get a lot of examination here: Point differential.

Overall, the Steelers were a +98 for the regular season; however if one was to breakdown that number further, i.e. compare home game point differential to road game differential, a much less flattering image of the team begins to emerge.

In their eight home games the Steelers were +120, two home shutouts and a dominating performance versus Cincinnati went a long way towards that total. Conversely, on the road, the Steelers were a paltry -22 during the regular season. This got us to wondering about whether or not the 12-4 regular season record was truly a mirage, and so we applied a mathematical formula and, after checking our calculations, determined that based upon point differential alone the Steelers could have reasonable expected seven wins this season. Even more troubling is the notion, as expressed in the article, that there is a predictive quality to this formula for the following season. If that is true the Steeler nation will not have to worry about heart-wrenching playoff losses a year from now.

Wild Card Postgame: A brief comment

2012-01-08T17:15:00.000-08:00

The Steelers just were not good enough. Despite catching a few important breaks (e.g. the lateral to Mike Wallace), and having an opportunity to win the game in regulation, Pittsburgh made far too few plays (while allowing far too many) to deserve the victory.

And, the guess here is that Ike Taylor is going to remember this game for a very long time.

Wild Card Halftime

2012-01-08T15:22:00.000-08:00

At this point it looks as though it will take a Tebow-esque miracle for the Steelers to advance any further in this playoff season.

The view from here is that a lack of physical play by the Steelers' corners allowed Denver's receivers ~ including a tight end ~ get off the line of scrimmage with relative ease, and (to his credit) Tim Tebow threw some of his best passes of the season.

As if things weren't bad enough, injuries to Brett Keisel, Casey Hampton, and Max Starks leave Pittsburgh with no depth, ensuring that both dies of the Steelers' line (i.e. the offense and defense) are going to fad badly as the game wears on; and with the score being what it is one can surely expect a lot of running from Denver's offense.

Steelers @ Denver: Wild Card Weekend

2012-01-03T07:33:00.000-08:00

The Steelers limp into Denver a bruised and battered team; so while some (i.e. fans) may be taking the game for granted, right now the view here is that Pittsburgh is ripe for a first round upset, despite being early eight point favorites (for those inclined to place a wager, the safer bet would appear to be taking the under 39.5 combined points).

But pessimism is as natural to Steelers fans as snow is to Denver, so perhaps we should just look at the final numbers ~ which never lie.

Denver Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average total yards per game: Denver offense 23rd (316.6) v. Steelers defense 1st (271.8)

Average net rushing yards per game: Denver offense 1st (164.5) v. Steelers defense 8th (99.8)

Average net passing yards per game: Denver offense 31st (152.1) v. Steelers defense 1st (171.9)

Average points per game: Denver offense 25th (19.3) v. Steelers defense 1st (14.2)

Steelers Offense v. Denver Defense
Average total yards per game: Steelers offense 12th (372.3) v. Denver defense 20th (357.8)

Average net rushing yards per game: Steelers offense 14th (118.9) v. Denver defense 22nd (126.3)

Average net passing yards per game: Steelers offense 10th (253.4) v. Denver defense 18th (231.5)

Average points per game: Steelers offense: 21st (20.3) v. Denver defense 24th (24.4)

Special Teams
Average yards per punt return: Denver 3rd (12.7) v. Steelers 13th (10.5)

Average yards allowed per punt return: Denver 19th (11.5) v. Steelers 12th (8.4)

Average yards per kick return: Denver 15th (23.9) v. Steelers 10th (24.4)

Average yards allowed per kick return: Denver 20th (24.6) v. Steelers 17th (23.7)

Net yardage punting average: Denver 8th (40.2) v. Steelers 22nd (38.6)

Opponent net yardage punting average: Denver 12th (38.2) v. Steelers 17th (38.9)

Miscellaneous
Turnover differential: Denver 26th (-12) v. Steelers 29th (-13)

Time of possession: Denver 25th (29:37) v. Steelers 2nd (32:46)

Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): Denver 24th (47.2%) v. Steelers 17th (50.9%)

Red Zone defense (touchdowns): Denver 14th (51.9%) v. Steelers 17th (54.8%)

Sacks allowed: Denver 23rd (42) v. Steelers 23rd (42)

Some Individual Numbers
AFC Passer rating: Tim Tebow, 15th (72.9) v. Ben Roethlisberger, 3rd (90.1)

AFC Leading rushers: Willis McGahee, 4th (1,199 yards, 4.8 yards per carry, 4 touchdowns) v. Isaac Redman, 24th (479 yards, 4.4 yards per carry, 3 touchdowns)

NOTE: Tim Tebow is the 15th leading rusher in the AFC with 660 yards, 5.4 yards per carry, and 6 rushing touchdowns.

AFC Leading receiver: Eric Decker, 42nd (44 catches, 612 yards, 13.9 per catch, 8 touchdowns) v. Mike Wallace 10th (72 catches, 1,193 yards, 16.6 yards per catch, 8 touchdowns)

NOTE: The Steelers have four receivers amongst the top 50 in the AFC (Mike Wallace #10, Antonio Brown #12, Heath Miller #31, and Hines Ward #38) while the Broncos have only one.

AFC Sack Leaders: Von Miller, 4th (11.5) v. LaMarr Woodley and James Harrison 9th (9.0)

One quick comment

2012-01-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

Given everything that transpired between Santonio Holmes and his New York Jets teammates and coaches yesterday, and throughout the 2011 season, that April 2010 trade that the Steelers pulled-off is looking better than ever.

In return for their troubled star the Steelers received a fifth round draft pick in that year's NFL draft, a pick that was eventually traded to the Arizona Cardinals (who selected John Skelton). In return the Pittsburgh re-obtained Bryant McFadden and a sixth round pick from the Cardinals. The Steelers used that pick to choose Antonio Brown, this year's Steelers MVP.

Yeah, it's a funny game.

Steelers @ Cleveland: The Matchups

2011-12-29T16:05:00.000-08:00

Cleveland Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average total yards per game: Cleveland offense 29th (292.1) v. Steelers defense 1st (273.9)

Average net rushing yards per game: Cleveland offense 28th (97.3) v. Steelers defense 9th (101.7)

Average net passing yards per game: Cleveland offense 23rd (194.8) v. Steelers defense 1st (172.2)

Average points per game: Cleveland offense 30th (13.9) v. Steelers defense 2nd (14.5)

Steelers Offense v. Cleveland Defense
Average total yards per game: Steelers offense 11th (373.1) v. Cleveland defense 10th (330.5)

Average net rushing yards per game: Steelers offense 16th (116.1) v. Cleveland defense 30th (146.5)

Average net passing yards per game: Steelers offense 9th (257.0) v. Cleveland defense 2nd (184.0)

Average points per game: Steelers offense: 20th (20.8) v. Cleveland defense 6th (19.6)

Special Teams
Average yards per punt return: Cleveland 9th (11.5) v. Steelers 13th (10.5)

Average yards allowed per punt return: Cleveland 22nd (11.7) v. Steelers 12th (8.6)

Average yards per kick return: Cleveland 10th (24.2) v. Steelers 8th (24.5)

Average yards allowed per kick return: Cleveland 10th (24.3) v. Steelers 18th (22.4)

Net yardage punting average: Cleveland 28th (36.3) v. Steelers 21st (38.6)

Opponent net yardage punting average: Cleveland 12th (37.8) v. Steelers 22nd (39.1)

Miscellaneous
Turnover differential: Cleveland 17th (+0) v. Steelers 29th (-12)

Time of possession: Cleveland 21st (29:37) v. Steelers 3rd (32:46)

Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): Cleveland 27th (45.8%) v. Steelers 12th (53.7%)

Red Zone defense (touchdowns): Cleveland 3rd (40.5%) v. Steelers 22nd (62.5%)

Sacks allowed: Cleveland 19th (37) v. Steelers 23rd (40)

Some Individual Numbers
AFC Passer rating: Seneca Wallace, Unranked (79.7) v. Ben Roethlisberger, 3rd (91.5)

AFC Leading rushers: Peyton Hillis, 19th (557 yards, 3.7 yards per carry, 3 touchdowns) v. Rashard Mendenhall, 12th (890 yards, 4.0 yards per carry, 9 touchdowns)

AFC Leading receiver: Greg Little, 15th (61 catches, 709 yards, 11.6 per catch, 2 touchdowns) v. Mike Wallace 8th (71 catches, 1,182 yards, 16.8 yards per catch, 8 touchdowns)

AFC Sack Leaders: Jabaal Sheard, 14th (7.5) v. LaMarr Woodley and James Harrison 9th (9.0)

The single greatest play in NFL history

2011-12-23T10:05:00.001-08:00

Thirty-nine years ago today.

Steelers Chalk Talk

2011-12-22T08:27:00.000-08:00

Steelers.com posts a weekly "Chalk Talk" feature with Bob Labriola and Tunch Ilkin; and if you're not watching these you should. Using coach's film (what they refer to as the "eye in the sky" which is remarkably similar to the view from my seats in Heinz Field) Mr. Ilkin provides in-depth analysis of key moments in each week's Steelers game.

St. Louis vs. Steelers: The Matchups

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Given how poorly the Steelers played in all phases versus San Francisco they probably should not take anything or anyone for granted.

St. Louis Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average total yards per game: St. Louis offense 30th (285.3) v. Steelers defense 2nd (276.9)

Average net rushing yards per game: St. Louis offense 26th (99.4) v. Steelers defense 6th (97.2)

Average net passing yards per game: St. Louis offense 27th (185.9) v. Steelers defense 1st (179.6)

Average points per game: St. Louis offense 32nd (23.61) v. Steelers defense 2nd (15.57)

Steelers Offense v. St. Louis Defense
Average total yards per game: Steelers offense 12th (372.9) v. St. Louis defense 21st (359.7)

Average net rushing yards per game: Steelers offense 18th (112.4) v. St. Louis defense 32nd (153.4)

Average net passing yards per game: Steelers offense 7th (260.5) v. St. Louis defense 8th (206.3)

Average points per game: Steelers offense: 20th (20.36) v. St. Louis defense 25th (24.71)

Special Teams
Average yards per punt return: St. Louis 7th (11.8) v. Steelers 14th (10.7)

Average yards allowed per punt return: St. Louis 25th (12.8) v. Steelers 12th (8.3)

Average yards per kick return: St. Louis 20th (22.9) v. Steelers 7th (25.2)

Average yards allowed per kick return: St. Louis 23rd (24.9) v. Steelers 23rd (24.3)

Net yardage punting average: St. Louis 28th (36.5) v. Steelers 22nd (38.4)

Opponent net yardage punting average: St. Louis 15th (38.9) v. Steelers 14th (39.1)

Miscellaneous
Turnover differential: St. Louis 22nd (-4) v. Steelers 30th (-11)

Time of possession: St. Louis 27th (28:09) v. Steelers 2nd (32:23)

Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): St. Louis 31st (34.6%) v. Steelers 17th (52.3%)

Red Zone defense (touchdowns): St. Louis 9th (45.5%) v. Steelers 25th (57.7%)

Sacks allowed: St. Louis 32nd (49) v. Steelers 26th (40)

Some Individual Numbers
Passer rating: Sam Bradford, 16th/NFC (70.7) v. Ben Roethlisberger, 3rd/AFC (91.5)

Leading rushers: Steven Jackson, 7th/NFC (966 yards, 4.4 yards per carry, 5 touchdowns) v. Rashard Mendenhall, 13th/AFC (774 yards, 3.8 yards per carry, 8 touchdowns)

Leading receiver: Brandon Lloyd, 16th/NFC (61 catches, 837 yards, 13.7 per catch, 4 touchdowns) v. Mike Wallace, 8th/AFC (67 catches, 1,100 yards, 16.4 yards per catch, 8 touchdowns)

Note: Antonio Brown is the 12th leading receiver in the AFC, and his numbers look like this: 60 catches, 984 yards, 16.4 yards per catch, 2 touchdowns

Sack Leaders: Chris Long, 5th/NFC (13.0) v. LaMarr Woodley, 7th/AFCh (9.0)

Steelers @ San Francisco: Random thoughts

2011-12-20T09:37:00.000-08:00

de·ba·cle
noun
\dē-bä-kəl, di-, -ba-; ÷de-bə-kəl\

Definition of Debacle:
1: a tumultuous breakup of ice in a river
2: a violent disruption (as of an army) : rout
3a : a great disaster b : a complete failure : fiasco

1. As a fan I want to know everything about my teams; and while I surely know more than most it must also be acknowledged (right at the top) that I do not know as much as I would like. Having said that, the defensive game plan versus the 49ers ~ specifically the big cushions afforded their receivers ~ is a puzzlement. Following the victory versus New England much was made of how effective the press coverage was in throwing off the timing between Tom Brady and his receivers. So, why then, didn't the Steelers use the same approach against a west coast offense that is predicated on timing patterns? From my perch on the couch it seemed that the Steelers took a much more passive defensive approach than in recent games, and it did not seem to serve them well.

2. Mike Wallace needs to bulk-up. Since the first month of the season opponent defenses have taken to not only double teaming Mr. Wallace but also playing him more physically at the line of scrimmage; and the approach seems to be working. In the first four games of the regular season Mr. Wallace averaged 6.25 catches per game for an average of 108.5 yards per game (25 catches, 434 yards). In the ten games since he has averaged 4.2 catches per game for an average of 64.6 yards (42 catches, 646 yards). Antonio Brown has certainly benefited from the increased attention Mr. Wallace has received; but if the Steelers are to do an serious damage in the playoffs (i.e. return to the Super Bowl) then Mike Wallace needs to recapture his earlier form.

3. We all respect players who play hurt; but when they hurt the team by doing so then they do the team no favors. It easy to understand why Ben Roethlisberger dragged his gimpy ankle onto the field Monday night ~ what with the Steelers having been presented an opportunity to vault to the #1 seed in the AFC ~ but he was horrible. If Charlie Batch is incapable of besting that performance ~ and the suggestion here is that he should start the next two games ~ then one has to wonder why he (or Dennis Dixon) is on the roster.

This could be exhausting

2011-12-19T14:29:00.001-08:00

EA Sports' Madden 12 makes a prediction on tonight's game.

Steelers @ San Francsico: The Matchups

2011-12-14T08:13:00.000-08:00

Before the season started this looked like a sure win on the Steelers' schedule; which only demonstrates how unpredictable the National Football League is. With Ben Roethlisberger and Maurkice Pouncey uncertain at best for Monday's game, this is shaping-up to be a very big hill to climb.

Looking at these numbers the 49er game plan seems obvious: Keep the opponent on a long field (their net punting average is phenomenal) and force mistakes (#1 in turnovers), thereby giving their offense a short field on which to work.

One statistic, not normally included in The Matchups, that Steelers GM Kevin Colbert believes is significant is average gain per pass play. For what it is worth, the 49ers are 23rd in the league in the category while the Steelers are 7th.

San Francisco Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average total yards per game: San Francisco offense 26th (309.0) v. Steelers defense 2nd (276.1)

Average net rushing yards per game: San Francisco offense 7th (126.9) v. Steelers defense 6th (97.0)

Average net passing yards per game: San Francisco offense 29th (182.1) v. Steelers defense 1st (179.1)

Average points per game: San Francisco offense 12th (23.61) v. Steelers defense 2nd (15.23)

Steelers Offense v. San Francisco Defense
Average total yards per game: Steelers offense 11th (371.6) v. San Francisco defense 5th (305.1)

Average net rushing yards per game: Steelers offense 17th (114.5) v. San Francisco defense 1st (70.5)

Average net passing yards per game: Steelers offense 9th (257.1) v. San Francisco defense 17th (234.5)

Average points per game: Steelers offense: 19th (21.69) v. San Francisco defense 1st (14.0)

Special Teams
Average yards per punt return: San Francisco 5th (12.3) v. Steelers 8th (11.7)

Average yards allowed per punt return: San Francisco 12th (8.6) v. Steelers 10th (8.3)

Average yards per kick return: San Francisco 1st (28.0) v. Steelers 15th (23.9)

Average yards allowed per kick return: San Francisco 12h (22.4) v. Steelers 23rd (24.8)

Net yardage punting average: San Francisco 1st (43.7) v. Steelers 21st (38.4)

Opponent net yardage punting average: San Francisco 6th (36.9) v. Steelers 12th (38.2)

Miscellaneous
Turnover differential: San Francisco 1st (+21) v. Steelers 26th (-7)

Time of possession: San Francisco 3rd (32:00) v. Steelers 2nd (32:23)

Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): San Francisco 30th (42.2%) v. Steelers 15th (52.3%)

Red Zone defense (touchdowns): San Francisco 1st (40.5%) v. Steelers 23rd (57.7%)

Sacks allowed: San Francisco 27th (39) v. Steelers 25th (37)

Some Individual Numbers
Passer rating: Alex Smith, 6th/NFC (91.5) v. Ben Roethlisberger, 3rd/AFC (95.6)

Leading rushers: Frank Gore, 3rd/NFC (1,054 yards, 4.5 yards per carry, 6 touchdowns) v. Rashard Mendenhall, 13th/AFC (710 yards, 3.8 yards per carry, 8 touchdowns)

Leading receiver: Michael Crabtree, 18th/NFC (55 catches, 668 yards, 12.1 per catch, 2 touchdowns) v. Mike Wallace, 6th/AFC (62 catches, 1,034 yards, 16.7 yards per catch, 8 touchdowns)

Note: Antonio Brown is the 12th leading receiver in the AFC, and his numbers look like this: 55 catches, 925 yards, 16.8 yards per catch, 2 touchdowns

Sack Leaders: Aldon Smith, 6th/NFC (10.5) v. LaMarr Woodley, 6th/AFCh (9.0)

James Harrison suspended

2011-12-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

By now all Steelers fans are aware that James Harrison has been suspended for one game because of his hit on Colt McCoy. The decision by the league is galling ~ the rule against helmet-to-helmet hits does not include "incidental contact by the mask or non-crown parts of the helmet in the course of a conventional tackle on a passer," which this it appeared to be ~ as is his being barred from practices and team facilities for this week. But, for what it is worth, here is the NFL's announcement and rationalization in its entirety:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

12/13/11

HARRISON SUSPENDED FOR ONE GAME FOR FIFTH ILLEGAL HIT AGAINST A QUARTERBACK IN THREE SEASONS

JAMES HARRISON of the Pittsburgh Steelers has been suspended without pay for one game by NFL Executive Vice President RAY ANDERSON as a result of Harrison’s fifth illegal hit against a quarterback in the past three seasons, the NFL announced today.

Harrison was penalized for roughing the passer in last Thursday night’s Steelers-Browns game for an illegal helmet-to-helmet hit against a defenseless quarterback, Cleveland’s COLT MC COY. In addition to four fines for illegal hits against quarterbacks in 2009 and 2010, Harrison also was fined twice for unnecessary roughness during that period. Harrison totaled six fines in that two-year period.

The 2011 League Policies for Players manual states: “Players who were fined for violations in 2009 or 2010, and whose fines were either partially or fully upheld, will be considered second and/or repeat offenders under this policy.”

Harrison may not practice this week or be at the team practice facility or stadium for any other activities during the suspension. He will be reinstated on December 20. Under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the suspension may be appealed within three business days and an expedited hearing and decision would take place this week in advance of this weekend’s games. Appeals are heard and decided on a rotating basis by either Art Shell or Ted Cottrell, the officers jointly appointed and compensated by the NFL and NFLPA to decide appeals of on-field player discipline.

Rule 12, Section 2, Article 9 of the NFL Rule Book states: “It is a foul if a player initiates unnecessary contact against a player who is in a defenseless posture. (a) Players in a defenseless posture are: (1) A player in the act of or just after throwing a pass.

Rule 12, Section 2, Article 13 (8) and (3) is also applicable to the roughing the passer penalty called against Harrison.

When a passer is outside the pocket area, as McCoy was, he is still afforded the protection of Article 13 (3), which prohibits defensive players from using their helmet against a passer who is in a defenseless posture, including by “forcibly hitting the passer’s head or neck area with the helmet or facemask, regardless of whether the defensive player also uses his arms to tackle the passer by encircling or grasping him”.

The applicable rules:

PASSER OUT OF THE POCKET

(8) When the passer goes outside the pocket area and either continues moving with the ball (without attempting to advance the ball as a runner) or throws while on the run, he loses the protection of the one-step rule provided for in (1) above, and the protection against a low hit provided for in (5) above, but he remains covered by all the other special protections afforded to a passer in the pocket (numbers 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7), as well as the regular unnecessary-roughness rules applicable to all player positions. If the passer stops behind the line and clearly establishes a passing posture, he will then be covered by all of the special protections for passers.

HITS TO PASSER’S HEAD AND USE OF HELMET AND FACEMASK

(3) In covering the passer position, Referees will be particularly alert to fouls in which defenders impermissibly use the helmet and/or facemask to hit the passer, or use hands, arms, or other parts of the body to hit the passer forcibly in the head or neck area (see also the other unnecessary-roughness rules covering these subjects). A defensive player must not use his helmet against a passer who is in a defenseless posture for example, (a) forcibly hitting the passer’s head or neck area with the helmet or facemask, regardless of whether the defensive player also uses his arms to tackle the passer by encircling or grasping him, or (b) lowering the head and making forcible contact with the top/crown or forehead/”hairline” parts of the helmet against any part of the passer’s body. This rule does not prohibit incidental contact by the mask or non-crown parts of the helmet in the course of a conventional tackle on a passer.<>

Cleveland vs. Steelers: The Matchups

2011-12-07T08:42:00.001-08:00

As has been the case so often recently, it's easy to get complacent about this game. But if there has ever been a team that plays to the level of its competition it is the Steelers, and that is certainly cause for concern. After all, the last time these two teams played on a Thursday night the Steelers stunk.

Also, Cleveland's red zone defense has been outstanding, which means that it may be tough for Pittsburgh to pull away.

Cleveland Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average total yards per game: Cleveland offense 30th (290.7) v. Steelers defense 1st (273.8)

Average net rushing yards per game: Cleveland offense 30th (93.7) v. Steelers defense 7th (96.9)

Average net passing yards per game: Cleveland offense 31st (197.0) v. Steelers defense 2nd (176.8)

Average points per game: Cleveland offense 28th (14.6) v. Steelers defense 4th (16.3)

Steelers Offense v. Cleveland Defense
Average total yards per game: Steelers offense 11th (367.9) v. Cleveland defense 8th (324.6)

Average net rushing yards per game: Steelers offense 17th (111.8) v. Cleveland defense 31st (151.3)

Average net passing yards per game: Steelers offense 9th (256.1) v. Cleveland defense 1st (173.3)

Average points per game: Steelers offense: 18th (22.3) v. Cleveland defense 8th (20.0)

Special Teams
Average yards per punt return: Cleveland 21st (8.9) v. Steelers 8th (11.7)

Average yards allowed per punt return: Cleveland 26th (12.9) v. Steelers 9th (8.2)

Average yards per kick return: Cleveland 13th (24.3) v. Steelers 12th (24.6)

Average yards allowed per kick return: Cleveland 9th (22.3) v. Steelers 22nd (25.1)

Net yardage punting average: Cleveland 29th (36.2) v. Steelers 19th (38.8)

Opponent net yardage punting average: Cleveland 19th (39.2) v. Steelers 14th (38.6)

Miscellaneous
Turnover differential: Cleveland 19th (-1) v. Steelers 27th (-6)

Time of possession: Cleveland 20th (29:37) v. Steelers 2nd (32:46)

Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): Cleveland 24th (45.8%) v. Steelers 12th (53.7%)

Red Zone defense (touchdowns): Cleveland 6th (40.5%) v. Steelers 27th (62.5%)

Sacks allowed: Cleveland 22nd (30) v. Steelers 27th (35)

Some Individual Numbers
AFC Passer rating: Colt McCoy, 12th (76.9) v. Ben Roethlisberger, 3rd (93.6)

AFC Leading rushers: Peyton Hillis, 24th (321 yards, 3.8 yards per carry, 2 touchdowns) v. Rashard Mendenhall, 13th (634 yards, 3.8 yards per carry, 8 touchdowns)

AFC Leading receiver: Greg Little, 15th (50 catches, 513 yards, 10.3 per catch, 1 touchdown) v. Mike Wallace (58 catches, 977 yards, 16.8 yards per catch, 8 touchdowns)

AFC Sack Leaders: Jabaal Sheard, 20th (5.5) v. LaMarr Woodley, 4th (9.0)

Are things breaking the Steelers' way?

2011-11-15T08:44:00.001-08:00

While seeing the Steelers win is always a fervent desire we have a very strong ethic of not wanting to see opponents -- even Baltimore Ravens -- injured. But Monday's news that Texans' quarterback Matt Schaub is likely out for the season has been followed-up Tuesday morning with news that Kansas City QB Matt Cassel has a "serious" hand injury and may be out for the season as well.

The potential impact to the Steelers should be obvious: Houston's perch at #1 in the AFC now rides on the left arm of Matt Leinart; and the Steelers' next opponent, Kansas City, will (apparently) trot out former Pitt quarterback Tyler Palko to face his hometown team.

Pittsburgh still needs help in the form of an additional Baltimore loss, or two, and the Steelers need to do their part (i.e. win!). However, a path to the #1 seed is beginning to emerge; and here's hoping the Black & Gold can seize the opportunity.

Steelers @ Cincinnati: The Results

2011-11-14T08:28:00.001-08:00

Here is a look at how the Steelers have been doing this season in several statistical categories, and how they measured up in their most recent game.

Cincinnati Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average total yards per game: 316.3 vs. Actual total yards: 279 (-37.3)
Average net rushing yards per game: 104.1 vs. Actual net rushing yards: 109 (+4.9)
Average net passing yards per game: 212.1 vs. Actual net passing yards: 170 (-42.1)
Average points per game: 24.38 vs. Actual points: 17 (-7.38)

Steelers Offense v. Cincinnati Defense
Average total yards per game: 389.1 vs. Actual total yards: 328 (-61.1)
Average net rushing yards per game: 110.3 vs. Actual net rushing yards: 105 (-5.3)
Average net passing yards per game: 278.8 vs. Actual net passing yards: 223 (-55.8)

NOTE: Are we sure the Steelers won this game?

Special Teams -- Cincinnati
Average yards per punt return: 12.2 vs. Actual yards per punt return: 10.8 (-1.4)
Average yards allowed per punt return: 6.9 vs. Actual yards allowed per punt return: 5.0 (-1.9)
Average yards per kick return: 26.5 vs. Actual yards per kick return: 23.0 (-3.5)
Average yards allowed per kick return: 24.4 vs. Actual yards allowed per kick return: 23.0 (-1.4)
Net yardage punting average: 39.5 vs. Actual net yardage punting average: 40.2 (+0.7)
Opponent net yardage punting average: 37.8 vs. Actual net yardage punting average: 41.8 (+4.0)

Special Teams -- Steelers
Average yards per punt return: 11.3 vs. Actual yards per punt return: 5.0 (-6.3)
Average yards allowed per punt return: 4.4 vs. Actual yards allowed per punt return: 10.8 (+6.4)
Average yards per kick return: 23.0 vs. Actual yards per kick return: 28.0 (+5.0)
Average yards allowed per kick return: 25.0 vs. Actual yards allowed per kick return: 28.0 (+3.0)
Net yardage punting average: 38.8 vs. Actual net yardage punting average: 41.8 (+3.0)
Opponent net yardage punting average: 38.9 vs. Actual net yardage punting average: 40.2 (+1.3)

NOTE: Seriously, are we sure the Steelers won this game?

Miscellaneous -- Cincinnati
Turnover differential: +3 vs. -1
Time of possession: 30:50 vs. Actual: 26:07 (-4:43)
Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): 50.0% vs. Actual: 100.0% (1 for 1)
Red Zone defense (touchdowns): 55.6% vs. Actual: 75% (3 for 4)

Miscellaneous -- Steelers
Turnover differential: -11 vs. +1
Time of possession: 32:34 vs. Actual: 33:53 (+1:19)
Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): 46.7% vs. 75.0% (3 for 4)
Red Zone defense (touchdowns): 61.9% vs. Actual: 100% (1 for 1)

Some individual numbers
AFC passer rating: Andy Dalton, 85.0 vs. Actual: 61.8
AFC passer rating: Ben Roethlisberger, 94.1 vs. Actual: 83.5
Leading rusher: Cedric Benson, 3.9 yards per carry vs. Actual: 3.8 (-.1)
Leading rusher: Rashard Mendenhall, 3.9 yards per carry vs. Actual: 2.8 (-1.1)
Leading receivers: A.J. Green,15.0 yards per catch vs. Actual: 1 catch, 36.0 yards per catch
NOTE:The leading receiver for Cincinnati this past Sunday was Andrew Hawkins, 5 catches, 11.2 yards per catch.

Leading receivers: Mike Wallace, 18.5 yards per catch vs. Actual: 6 catches, 9.0 yards per catch NOTE:The other leading receiver for Pittsburgh this past Sunday was Antonio Brown, 5 catches, 17.2 yards per catch

Steelers @ Cincinnati: The Weekly Matchup

2011-11-08T09:57:00.000-08:00

Chastened, and having fallen from #1 in the AFC standings to #6 with the loss to Baltimore, Pittsburgh takes on a rejuvenated Cincinnati team that leads the AFC Central. While some will be quick to point out that the Bengals record has been achieved against opponents whose collective record is 26-34, defenders of the Bengals might observe that the Steelers' opponents have combined for a record of 33-41. Moreover, against teams whose winning percentage is better than .500, the Steelers have exactly one victory.

Here's a look at some more of this week's numbers:

Cincinnati Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average total yards per game: Cincinnati offense 22nd (316.3) v. Steelers defense 3rd (280.2 )

Average net rushing yards per game: Cincinnati offense 21st (104.1) v. Steelers defense 6th (95.6)

Average net passing yards per game: Cincinnati offense 21st (212.1) v. Steelers defense 3rd (184.7)

Average points per game: Cincinnati offense 13th (24.38) v. Steelers defense 5th (18.0)

Steelers Offense v. Cincinnati Defense
Average total yards per game: Steelers offense 9th (389.1) v. Cincinnati defense 4th (301.3)

Average net rushing yards per game: Steelers offense 19th (110.3) v. Cincinnati defense 2nd (84.5)

Average net passing yards per game: Steelers offense 8th (278.8) v. Cincinnati defense 10th (216.8)

Average points per game: Steelers offense: 19th (21.78) v. Cincinnati defense 4th (17.5)

Special Teams
Average yards per punt return: Cincinnati 7th (12.2) v. Steelers 9th (11.3)

Average yards allowed per punt return: Cincinnati 9th (6.9) v. Steelers 1st (4.4)

Average yards per kick return: Cincinnati 17th (23.0) v. Steelers 5th (26.5)

Average yards allowed per kick return: Cincinnati 22nd (24.4) v. Steelers 23rd (25.0)

Net yardage punting average: Cincinnati 11th (39.5) v. Steelers 22nd (38.8)

Opponent net yardage punting average: Cincinnati 10th (37.8) v. Steelers 14th (38.9)

Miscellaneous
Turnover differential: Cincinnati 11th (+3) v. Steelers 32nd (-11)

Time of possession: Cincinnati 10th (30:50) v. Steelers 4th (32:34)

Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): Cincinnati 16th (50.0%) v. Steelers 22nd (46.7%)

Red Zone defense (touchdowns): Cincinnati 19th (55.6%) v. Steelers 26th (61.9%)

Sacks allowed: Cincinnati 5th (13) v. Steelers 28th (26)

Some Individual Numbers
AFC Passer rating: Andy Dalton, 6th (85.0) v. Ben Roethlisberger, 2nd (94.1)

Leading rushers: Cedric Benson 7th (536 yards, 137 attempts, 3.9 per carry) v. Willie Parker, 11th (473 yards, 120 attempts, 3.9 per carry)

Leading receivers: A.J. Green, 6th (40 catches, 599 yards, 15.0 per catch, 5 touchdowns) v. Mike Wallace, 2nd (47 catches, 868 yards, 18.5 yards per catch, 6 touchdowns)

Sacks: Geno Atkins, 15th (3.5) v. LaMarr Woodley, 1st (9.0)
Note: With LaMarr Woodley likely to miss Sunday's game the Steelers' leading sack artist is James Harrison, 7th in AFC with five sacks.

Baltimore vs. Steelers: Instant Analysis, fourth quarter

2011-11-06T20:53:00.000-08:00

The opportunities were there, and the Steelers finally put together 13:30 of good football; but the inability of the defense to get off the field on third (or fourth) down, combined with a poorly thrown pass to Mewelde Moore on third down of the Steelers' second-to-last possession cracked the door for Baltimore.

One final note: Steelers fans everywhere please don't bother blaming the officials. Walt Coleman and his crew simply are not responsible for this loss. Inconsistent play, and an inability of the Pittsburgh defensive secondary to stop Baltimore on third down is.

Baltimore vs. Steelers: Instant Analysis, third quarter

2011-11-06T19:52:00.001-08:00

The only analysis required is this: When will Ben Roethlisberger stop making such horrible plays?

The Steelers are 15 minutes away from setting themselves up for a season-long fight for a wild card spot.

Baltimore vs. Steelers: Instant Analysis, second quarter

2011-11-06T19:16:00.000-08:00

Third down conversions by Baltimore -- 7 for 11 in the first half -- continue to be a huge difference in the game. While the Steelers' defense has limited the damage to four field goal attempts, they have to find a way to get off the field. Also, missed opportunities -- two dropped interceptions one forced fumble -- are not helping matters.

As for the offense, missed opportunities are the entire story. Unable to sustain drives (11:47 in time of possession in the first half), the defense is spending far too much time of the field.

Baltimore vs. Steelers: Instant Analysis, first quarter

2011-11-06T18:12:00.000-08:00

Until the complete pass to Heath Miller with 2:00 left in the quarter it wasn't at all clear that the Steelers would make a first down in the quarter. Baltimore simply dominated the stat sheet; without lighting-up the scoreboard the way they did in week one.

As it was, Baltimore had the football for 11:23 to the Steelers 3:37, and was 5 for 7 (71.4%) on third down conversions. Meanwhile, the Steelers' first possession ended prematurely as the they were unable to gain one yard after gaining nine on their first play. Offensively, there's more room for improvement than can be covered here and now.

On the defensive side of the ball the Steelers' line appeared to be overpursuing far too much; and it was fortunate that players like James Harrison and Troy Polamalu were doing a solid job of staying home, and limiting the gains by Ray Rice and Ricky Williams.

Baltimore vs. Steelers: The Matchups

2011-11-01T07:45:00.000-07:00

The Steelers accomplished the improbable last week against New England; and the question now is whether or not they have what it takes to seize the opportunity they have created for themselves.

Here's a look at this week's numbers:

Baltimore Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average total yards per game: Baltimore offense 14th (341.0) v. Steelers defense 2nd (270.8)

Average net rushing yards per game: Baltimore offense 19th (107.0) v. Steelers defense 8th (99.1)

Average net passing yards per game: Baltimore offense 15th (234.0) v. Steelers defense 1st (171.6)

Average points per game: Baltimore offense 7th (26.43) v. Steelers defense 3rd (17.38)

Steelers Offense v. Baltimore Defense
Average total yards per game: Steelers offense 9th (388.8) v. Baltimore defense 1st (263.3)

Average net rushing yards per game: Steelers offense 14th (115.4) v. Baltimore defense 3rd (89.1)

Average net passing yards per game: Steelers offense 7th (273.4) v. Baltimore defense 3rd (174.1)

Average points per game: Steelers offense: 19th (22.0) v. Baltimore defense 2nd (15.71)

Special Teams
Average yards per punt return: Baltimore 22nd (8.3) v. Steelers 8th (11.4)

Average yards allowed per punt return: Baltimore 11th (10.5) v. Steelers 2nd (4.6)

Average yards per kick return: Baltimore 8th (25.9) v. Steelers 6th (26.6)

Average yards allowed per kick return: Baltimore 32nd (35.0) v. Steelers 17th (23.7)

Net yardage punting average: Baltimore 15th (38.6) v. Steelers 20th (39.1)

Opponent net yardage punting average: Baltimore 14th (38.7) v. Steelers 20th (39.1)

Miscellaneous
Turnover differential: Baltimore 9th (+3) v. Steelers 32nd (-10)

Time of possession: Baltimore 15th (30:08) v. Steelers 4th (33:24)

Red Zone touchdown efficiency (touchdowns): Baltimore 28th (42.3%) v. Steelers 16th (50.0%)

Red Zone defense (touchdowns): Baltimore 8th (43.8%) v. Steelers 26th (63.2%)

Sacks allowed: Baltimore 14th (16) v. Steelers 29th (25)

Some Individual Numbers (AFC only)
Passer rating: Joe Flacco, 14th (75.4) v. Ben Roethlisberger, 4th (95.7)

Leading rushers: Ray Rice, 6th (489 yards) v. Rashard Mendenhall, 11th (421 yards)

Leading receivers: Anquan Boldin, 7th (34 catches, 539 yards, 15.9 per catch, 2 touchdowns) v. Mike Wallace, 2nd (43 catches, 800 yards, 18.6 yards per catch, 5 touchdowns)

Sack Leaders: Terrell Suggs, 3rd (6.0) v. LaMarr Woodley, 1st (9.0)

A Mike Tomlin impersonation

2011-10-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

The sun must surely being shining brighter today in Pittsburgh than nearly any place else the world over.

The win versus their nemeses ~ Tom Brady, Bill Bill Belichick, and the rest of the New England Patriots ~ is as satisfying as a regular season win can get. But the game next Sunday is the one that matters most.

First, of course, it is Baltimore that come to town; and if ever the Steelers owe a team something it is the 2011 edition of Ravens. Beyond that, another loss to Baltimore would be a crushing blow to Pittsburgh's hopes for winning the division (and securing home field advantage throughout the playoffs).

The 2011 Steelers are in a position to achieve something very significant ~ i.e. bouncing back from a Super Bowl loss in a superb way ~ and unless they do Sunday's emotionally satisfying win against the Patriots will ring hollow.

New England vs. Steelers: The Matchups

2011-10-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

With a 1-6 record against Tom Brady it is tough to see just what the Steelers are capable of doing this time to achieve a different outcome; but that's why they play the games! With fingers crossed, here are are this week's AFC numbers.

New England Offense v. Steelers Defense
Average Total Yards per Game: New England Offense, 1st (474.5) v. Steelers Defense, 2nd (279.0)

Average Net Rushing Yards per Game: New England Offense, 10th (124) v. Steelers Defense, 11th (107.1)

Average Net Passing Yards per Game: New England Offense, 1st (350.5) v. Steelers Defense, 1st (171.9)

Third Down Conversions: New England Offense, 3rd (53.6%) v. Steelers Defense, 15th (38.3%)

Average Points per Game: New England Offense, 4th (30.83%) v. Steelers Defense, 3rd (38.3%)

Steelers Offense v. New England Defense
Average Total Yards per Game: Steelers Offense, 9th (383.3) v. New England Defense, 32nd (423.7)

Average Net Rushing Yards per Game: Steelers Offense, 15th (117.9) v. New England Defense, 8th (101.5)

Average Net Passing Yards per Game: Steelers Offense, 9th (265.4) v. New England Defense, 32nd (322.2)

Third Down Conversions: Steelers Offense, 4th (48.9%) v. New England Defense, 23rd (42.5%)

Average Points per Game: Steelers Offense, 19th (21.57) v. New England Defense, 15th (22.5)

Special Teams
Average Yards per Punt Return: New England 9th (11.6) v. Steelers, 7th (12.0)

Average Yards Allowed per Punt Return: New England, 10th (7.0) v. Steelers, 4th (5.1)

Average Yards per Kick Return: New England, 9th (21.6) v. Steelers, 8th (26.5)

Average Yards Allowed per Kick Return: New England, 18th (24.2) v. Steelers, 21st (24.8)

Net Yardage Punting Average: New England, 11th (39.7) v. Steelers, 20th (39.4)

Opponent Net Yard Punting Average: 29th (40.8) v. Steelers, 20th (39.1)

Miscellaneous
Turnover Differential: New England, 13th (+1) v. Steelers, 32nd (-10)

Time of Possession: New England, 21st (29:15) v. Steelers, 5th (32:32)

Red Zone Touchdown Efficiency: New England, 5th (63.3%) v. Steelers, 16th (52.4%)

Red Zone Defense: New England, 20th (83.3%) v. Steelers, 24th (94.1%)

Some Individual Numbers
Passer Rating: Tom Brady, 1st (104.8) v. Ben Roethlisberger, 3rd (95.3)

Leading Rushers: Benjarvus Green-Ellis, 11th (391 yards; 4.3 per carry; 5 touchdowns) v. Rashard Mendenhall, 12th (351 yards; 3.7 per carry; 3 touchdowns)

Leading Receiver: Wes Welker, 1st (785 yards; 15.4 per catch; 6 touchdowns) v. Mike Wallace, 2nd (730 yards; 20.3 per catch; 5 touchdowns)

Field Goal Accuracy: Stephen Gostkowski, 7th

20-29 Yards: 6/6
30-39 Yards: 1/1
40-49 Yards: 3/4
50+ Yards: 0/0

v. Shaun Suisham, 13th

20-29 Yards: 3/3
30-39 Yards: 2/4
40-49 Yards: 4/5
50+ Yards: 0/0

Sacks: Mark Anderson, 10th (3.5) v. LaMarr Woodley, 1st (7.0)